Irish LB Grace underdoes surgery to stabilize leg

SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Notre Dame linebacker Jarrett Grace had surgery to insert a rod to into his right leg that was broken in four places last season.

Coach Brian Kelly said Saturday that Grace underwent the surgery Friday to try to stabilize the leg and help the healing process. Kelly says the doctor said if the leg continues to heal as it has been he is optimistic Grace should be ready this fall.

Kelly says doctors should have a good idea in about six weeks the likelihood of Grace being healthy enough to play.

Grace was the starting middle linebacker for the Irish, the position filled by Manti Te’o a season earlier, and tied for the lead in tackles when he sustained the injury in a victory over Arizona State on Oct. 5.